Q. With reference to Union Budget, consider the following statements:
1. The Union Finance Minister on behalf of the Prime Minister lays the Annual Financial Statement before both the Houses of Parliament.
2. At the Union level, no demand for a grant be made except on the can recommendation of the President of India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Correct answer: (b) 2 only
Question from UPSC Prelims 2024 GS Paper
Explanation :
Statement 1: “Thea Union Finance Minister on behalf of the Prime Minister lays the Annual Financial Statement before both the Houses of Parliament.”
– This is INCORRECT
– As per Article 112 of the Constitution, the Annual Financial Statement (Budget) is laid before Parliament by the President
– The Finance Minister presents the budget on behalf of the President, not the Prime Minister
– This is because the executive authority of the Union is vested in the President
Statement 2: “At the Union level, no demand for a grant can be made except on the recommendation of the President of India.”
– This is CORRECT
– According to Article 113(3) of the Constitution, no demand for a grant shall be made except on the recommendation of the President
– This is a constitutional safeguard to ensure fiscal discipline
– The President’s recommendation is mandatory for any money bill or demand for grants
